Continue the Important Work of the School for the Blind

The Petition of the VA VIEU Sub-branch supported by the general public draws to the attention of The Honourable Bronwyn Pike, Minister for Education

that, with the sudden decision of Vision Australia to permanently close its school facility, dispense with its visiting teacher service, its staff of specialist teachers and its teacher aides at the end of 2009, the futures of many vision-impaired children with or without additional disabilities are in peril.

The RVIB School, now Vision Australia School, and its visiting teachers, have assisted generations of children who are blind or have low vision in reaching their potential, supported many through the integration process into mainstream schooling and provided training and help to many schools.

We understand that Vision Australia will not overturn its sudden change of policy after 142 years, and will not reconsider offering the full range of services, believing education to be the sole responsibility of government.

Therefore the petitioners ask that the minister implement as quickly as possible a vital and effective centre of education which will carry on and expand the essential work of the current school.

The petitioners also ask that the minister fully provide every state-funded school with appropriate services and equipment as well as suitable training for teachers and aides in preparation for the unique challenges faced by each child who is blind or has low-vision.